Graduation good time to evaluate life goals, balance

Congratulations to McCook High School, McCook Community College and everyone else moving the tassel on their mortarboard today and the coming days.

Even if you’re not an honor graduate, you’ve proven you can stick to difficult task and see it through.

Whether you’re going on to advanced education or entering the job market, you’ve got some important decisions to make.

Yes, money isn’t everything, but tell that to someone who doesn’t have enough for basics like food and shelter.

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pursue something you enjoy or have a passion about.

That being said, here are some occupations that are expected to be in high demand in the coming years:

• Healthcare: With an aging population and ongoing public health concerns, healthcare jobs are projected to continue growing. This includes doctors, nurses, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals.

• Technology: Technology continues to be a driving force in the economy, and careers in areas such as software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity are expected to remain in high demand.

• Education: With the ongoing need for skilled professionals, educators and teachers in various fields such as STEM, special education and ESL (English as a second language) are in high demand.

• Green Energy: The push for environmentally sustainable energy sources is creating a demand for professionals with skills in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green building design.

• Logistics and supply chain management: With the growth of e-commerce and global trade, logistics and supply chain management professionals are in high demand.

• Financial services: As businesses continue to expand and the economy grows, there will be an ongoing need for financial analysts, accountants, and other financial professionals.

Overall, the job market is constantly evolving, and new opportunities and challenges will arise. Graduates should seek to develop skills that will make them valuable in a variety of industries and be adaptable in an ever-changing market.

That being said, here are some factors to consider when evaluating potential careers:

Industry outlook: Graduates should research the industry trends and job market projections before pursuing a career. Some industries may be declining or becoming obsolete due to automation or other factors, so it’s important to be aware of these trends.

Job satisfaction: Graduates should choose a career that aligns with their interests and values to increase job satisfaction. While some occupations may be lucrative, they may not be fulfilling for everyone.

Work-life balance: Some careers may require long hours or extensive travel, which may not be suitable for everyone. Graduates should consider their personal priorities and needs when evaluating potential careers.

Salary and benefits: While salary shouldn’t be the only factor when choosing a career, graduates should research and compare the compensation packages for various occupations to ensure they are receiving fair compensation for their skills and experience.

Ultimately, graduates should weigh the pros and cons of each potential career path and make an informed decision based on their individual needs and goals.

As another old saying goes, if you’re doing something you like, you’ll never work a day in your life.